There was plenty of jubilation when tough Kyneton-trained galloper Lovin’ Laughs led throughout to win at Sandown last Wednesday.
It was a change of fortune for long time trainer Mick Sell and wife Mel, and they are warmly appreciative of all who have been helping them get through some tough times.
There was flooding that curtailed the ability to train on the Kyneton track, then Mick fractured an ankle and leg in a stable accident, and there have been other distractions as well.
Mick is still some way off being able to ride trackwork, but he was able to attend Sandown to see Lovin’ Laughs win over 1300m after a masterly front running ride by Maddy Lloyd.
Starting as a $31 outsider, Lovin’ Laughs jumped well from barrier 3 and Lloyd was happy to take up the running, with the other Sell runner Magnum Bullet close up.
The six-year-old was bred and is raced by the Miles family who have been involved with harness racing in the Monegeetta – Romsey area for a long time.
Lovin’ Laughs has now chalked up $222,690 in stake money from 35 starts, and is one of those tough and honest “fair dinkum” gallopers any stable would love to have on their books.
The Sells’ daughter Sarah and Maddy Lloyd are close friends, having been riding at palomino shows together for some years.
Lloyd has built up an affinity with Lovin’ Laughs, and she landed a winning double on Wednesday as well.
